FASHION ENTREPRENEUR FUND

India’s first dedicated venture studio for fashion startups. Positioned at the intersection of fashion, business, and Bollywood, we bring together creative vision, strategic business expertise, and cultural influence to build impactful, scalable fashion brands.

20K+
REGISTRATIONS RECEIVED
50+
COMPANIES SHORTLISTED
30+
STARTUPS SELECTED

BECOME AN FEF INVESTEE COMPANY

We invest in fashion-first founders with bold ideas and unstoppable drive.
Get investment, mentorship, and industry access—everything you need to build and scale your brand, under one roof.

Mission

Because fashion needs founders.

Ideas are everywhere, but execution needs fuel. We invest in bold fashion entrepreneurs ready to build fashion brands. If you're here to lead, we're here to power your vision and turn your fashion dreams into reality.

What to expect?

Support that scales with your ambition.

  • Experienced partners with deep industry insight
  • Access to a powerful investor and mentor network
  • Strategic collaborations and exclusive opportunities
  • Clear, actionable guidance tailored to fashion founders

Start your journey

Your journey starts here.

We’re looking for visionary founders building what’s next in fashion. Share your concept, your ambition, and what sets you apart. If it aligns, we’ll help you take it further, faster.

INVESTORS | MENTORS | PROMOTERS

An ecosystem built by industry veterans, visionary investors, and brand-builders who’ve done it before, and are ready to do it again.

Sahil Arora

Investor & Mentor

Sahil Arora
Investor & Mentor

At 31, Mr. Sahil Arora is redefining what it means to carry forward a legacy. As the third-generation entrepreneur at Kay International, a respected name in air blowers and vacuum systems, he brings a bold new perspective—rooted in tradition, yet driven by transformation.

Before stepping into the business, his journey took an unconventional path. He began his career as an assistant director in the film and media industry, working on commercial shoots and short films. There, he honed a sharp creative eye, learned to perform under pressure, and developed a deep appreciation for storytelling—all of which would later prove invaluable in the world of industrial manufacturing.

Today, Mr. Arora applies those same principles—clarity, discipline, and vision—to Kay International. He is focused on modernizing the business, expanding into new markets, and strengthening the brand’s global footprint without compromising its legacy of quality and trust.

Outside the boardroom, he is a passionate traveler, constantly exploring new cultures, technologies, and business ideas. His global outlook shapes his vision for Kay—not just as a machinery manufacturer, but as a forward-looking, internationally respected industrial partner.

Mr. Sahil Arora’s story is not just about continuing a family legacy. It’s about elevating it—reimagining what’s possible and leading it into the future with creativity, confidence, and a clear sense of purpose.

Manju Yagnik

Director

Manju Yagnik
Director

Vice Chairperson of Nahar Group and Senior Vice President of NAREDCO Maharashtra, Ms Manju Yagnik, is one of the most influential voices in Indian real estate today. With over three decades of experience, she has been instrumental in shaping award-winning townships like Amrit Shakti, bringing a visionary approach to integrated urban living.

At Nahar Group, she has led large-scale developments that blend residential, retail, healthcare, education, and wellness infrastructure, transforming the landscape of Mumbai’s suburban housing. Her work extends beyond business into strategic policy advocacy and women’s empowerment within the industry.

A recipient of numerous accolades, including Construction Woman of the Year and Most Admired Business Leader, Ms Yagnik is known for her people-first mindset, execution excellence, and commitment to sustainable development.

Outside the boardroom, she’s a strong supporter of social initiatives—from promoting girl child education to leading COVID-19 support efforts—and continues to inspire as a multifaceted leader, sportsperson, and changemaker.

Sonali Dugar

Director

Sonali Dugar
Director

A dynamic leader and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, MS Sonali Dugar serves as the Executive Director of Dugar Finance & Investments Ltd., an RBI-registered Non-Banking Financial Company. With a strong presence in finance and real estate, she also holds a directorial role at Good Worth Properties Pvt. Ltd.

She has played a pivotal role in community leadership, having served as the National Chief Secretary of JITO Ladies Wing, where she worked to amplify the voice and agency of women across the Jain community. As a first-generation entrepreneur, she also co-owns the Chennai franchise of the award-winning progressive Indian restaurant, SpiceKlub, bringing her business acumen into the culinary space.

With a blend of strategic vision, community focus, and entrepreneurial drive, Ms Dugar continues to inspire as a new-generation businesswoman shaping both industry and impact.

Rajesh Chandan

Investor & Promoter

Rajesh Chandan
Investor & Promoter

Mr Rajesh Chandan is a first-generation entrepreneur and technology enthusiast, known for his visionary leadership and passion for innovation. He is the Chairman of JITO Chennai and former APEX National Chairman of JITO Business Network (JBN), where he has inspired entrepreneurs nationwide. On the global front, he serves as Chairman of the Latin American & Caribbean Trade Council, representing trade interests across 33 countries, and is a Board Member of the Traders Welfare Board of India, appointed by Hon. Minister Piyush Goyal.

A TEDx speaker and award-winning entrepreneur, Mr Chandan actively invests in startups and growth ventures, including IndiaShoppe, Grohair, and Pappaya Education. He is also committed to philanthropy through his work with Shraman Arogyam, JATF, RYA Cosmo, and the Ascent Foundation.

Karan Johar

Investor & Mentor

Karan Johar
Investor & Mentor

Mr Karan Johar is a celebrated filmmaker, producer, entrepreneur, and cultural icon who has significantly shaped modern Indian entertainment. As the Founder and Director of Dharma Productions, he has created some of the most successful and influential films in Bollywood, blending commercial appeal with cultural relevance and talk show phenomenon Koffee with Karan. Under his leadership, Dharma has evolved into a multi-dimensional studio with several verticals, including Dharmatic Entertainment, Dharma 2.0 & Dharma Cornerstone Agency (DCA). 

His entrepreneurial spirit goes beyond cinema. He is the mind behind ventures like Tyaani Jewellery, a fine jewellery brand, and Neuma, a luxury restaurant in Mumbai. He has also invested in tech and consumer brands such as Nothing, Kofluence, and the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, showing his eye for innovation and influence in emerging markets.

Gaurav Dalmia

Investor & Mentor

Gaurav Dalmia
Investor & Mentor

Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings and founder of Landmark Holdings, Mr  Gaurav Dalmia is a strategic investor with a diversified portfolio spanning private equity, real estate, public markets, structured debt, and fixed income. He is an early investor in True North (with ~ $3.5 billion AUM) and co-founder of GTI, which focuses on India-centric investments. 

An accomplished alumnus of Salford University (BSc Computer Science) and Columbia Business School (MBA, Beta Gamma Sigma), Mr Dalmia was recognized as a “Global Leader for Tomorrow” by the World Economic Forum in 2000.

Beyond business, he contributes to public policy and education reform, serving on the boards of Brookings India and the Institute for New Economic Thinking (New York), and as Chairman of Room to Read India’s Advisory Board.

Saloni Jain

Investor & Promoter

Saloni Jain
Investor & Promoter

Founder of Vinayak Jewels Foundation and Director at Vinayak Products Pvt. Ltd. & Innovate Hub Prime Estate LLP, Saloni Jain is a trailblazer in India’s luxury jewellery space. With over two decades of leadership, she has helped shape Vinayak Jewels into one of the country’s fastest-growing manufacturers, crafting timeless pieces in Jaipur for a global clientele.

Blending entrepreneurial heritage with formal business training, Ms Jain brings a unique vision rooted in craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence.

Beyond business, she is a committed changemaker. As Chairperson of JITO Jaipur, she has driven initiatives in education and women’s empowerment, impacting 400+ girls through scholarships and skill development. Through her foundation, she partners with Akshaya Patra, organizes health camps for artisans, and engages civic leaders to amplify social impact.

Her efforts have earned her the Nari Gaurav Samman, recognizing her as a powerful force for progress, compassion, and community upliftment.

Vagish Pathak

Chairman

Vagish Pathak
Chairman

A passionate philanthropist, entrepreneur, and institution builder, Mr Vagish Pathak serves as the Chairperson of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF). With a deep commitment to nurturing innovation and creative talent, he plays a pivotal role in shaping FEF as India’s foremost platform supporting fashion-led startups.

Mr Pathak’s vision blends business insight with social impact. He is widely known for backing initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, empower youth, and drive meaningful change across industries. His ability to bring together investors, changemakers, and emerging designers has helped position FEF at the intersection of creativity and commerce. Deeply involved in community upliftment, Mr Pathak has supported multiple philanthropic efforts focused on education, employment, and wellness.

Jitendra Lalwani

Promoter

Jitendra Lalwani
Promoter

Mr. Jitendra Lalwani is a respected Indian industrialist and a driving force behind two thriving business empires, the Vimal Group of Companies, a leading name in specialty chemical distribution, and the Lalwani Group, a prominent real estate and diversified investment group based in Pune. 

With a legacy of over three decades, Mr. Lalwani has transformed the Lalwani Group into a multi-sector powerhouse with significant interests in real estate, hospitality, healthcare, and mining. His ventures include ownership of premium hotels, hospitals, mining operations, and a vast portfolio of real estate projects that have shaped Pune’s skyline and contributed to urban development across Maharashtra.

Mr. Lalwani’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by strategic foresight, operational excellence, and a people-centric approach. His business philosophy blends innovation with impact, investing not just in sectors, but in communities, growth ecosystems, and long-term value creation.

Vinod Dugar

Promoter

Vinod Dugar
Promoter

Co‑Promoter and Director of RDB Group, Mr Vinod Dugar, leads a diversified conglomerate with core strengths in real estate, infrastructure, packaging, power transmission, automobiles, education, healthcare, and logistics. Since launching the real estate arm in the 1990s, he transitioned to a professional leadership model around 2012 and has since invested in 40+ startups, emerging as a key entrepreneur and angel investor.

An active philanthropist and holder of the title Honorary Consul of the Republic of Malawi in Kolkata, Mr. Dugar champions education and healthcare via institutions like Aryans School, Stem World School, and Kusum Devi Sunderlal Dugar Jain Dental College & Hospital. He also organizes blood donation and health camps. He was appointed Chairman of the JITO Administrative Training Foundation (JATF) in September 2022, guiding youth development and civil-service readiness initiatives 

His passion for sports and culture is reflected in launching Inter Kashi FC (with Atletico de Madrid ties), aiming to foster grassroots football talent in Uttar Pradesh.

Sanjay Nigam

Founder

Sanjay Nigam
Founder

Mr Sanjay Nigam is a dynamic Indian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and industry leader with over two decades of experience in fashion and business. His ventures span India, the UAE, Singapore, and Africa, where he has played a key role in shaping the fashion ecosystem.

He is the founder of Talent Factory, the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), and the prestigious FEF Global Fashion Awards (FEFGFA), all dedicated to promoting and supporting emerging talent in the fashion industry.

Beyond business, Mr. Nigam is deeply committed to social impact. He co-founded Nirvana, an orphanage for mentally challenged girls in Lucknow, and has collaborated with the Government of Madhya Pradesh to support the Chanderi weavers' community. A certified Life Coach with the International Coach Federation (ICF), he actively supports NGOs working in education and healthcare, with a focus on uplifting underprivileged communities.

Ravi Jaipuria

Investor & Promoter

Ravi Jaipuria
Investor & Promoter

Widely known as India’s “Cola King,” Mr Ravi Jaipuria is the Chairman of RJ Corp, and the visionary force behind two of India’s leading consumer-facing companies—Varun Beverages, one of the world’s largest PepsiCo bottlers, and Devyani International, the country’s largest franchisee for KFC, Pizza Hut, and Costa Coffee.

His portfolio also includes: Creambell, J-Mart – Retail operations under RJ Corp and investments in healthcare and education, including a stake in Medanta.

With a sharp business acumen, he has played a pivotal role in transforming RJ Corp into a diversified powerhouse with interests spanning beverages, food services, healthcare, retail, real estate, and education. Beyond business, he is actively involved in philanthropy, contributing to healthcare and education initiatives nationwide. His influence continues to shape India’s consumer landscape with a blend of vision, resilience, and consistent growth.

Akshay Kumar

Investor & Mentor

Akshay Kumar
Investor & Mentor

A global Indian icon, Mr Akshay Kumar is one of Bollywood’s most bankable superstars, with a career spanning over 150 films and multiple genres—from action to comedy to drama. Praised for his discipline and versatility, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 2009 and is celebrated for his commitment to fitness.

Off-screen, he is a sharp entrepreneur. His business portfolio spans health, wellness, content, and fitness. Key ventures include: GOQii Smart Healthcare, FAAYDE by Akshay, Cape of Good Films, WELL Versed, Maidaan, and SocialSwag.

A disciplined fitness advocate and a firm believer in made-in-India potential, he is also known for backing startups that align with wellness, social impact, and mass empowerment. His entrepreneurial work, much like his filmography, is driven by purpose, scale, and long-term impact.

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PROPERTIES

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FEF Global Fashion Awards

FEF Global Fashion Awards is a prestigious platform celebrating the unsung heroes of fashion. From artisans to stylists, it honors those whose silent efforts shape the industry’s success.

FEF India Style Week

FEF India Style Week is an incubator for emerging talent. It gives established and new designers a bold stage—and a chance to pitch for investment.

FEF Retail Store

FEF Retail Store is a curated space for global fashion brands. With expert backing, it bridges creators and consumers, fueling long-term growth and impact.

Money Skool

MoneySkool is a revolutionary platform designed to empower individuals to take control of their financial future. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve financial freedom and personal growth.